Dreaming of a big adventure? See 5 of the smallest countries in Europe to add to your travel wish list
Curious about the smallest countries in Europe? Read on to see our list of five tiny destinations that offer up big travel experiences.
If you’re looking for a way to make your European adventure extraordinary, try adding one (or five) of the smallest countries in the world to your travel bucket list! We know your travel dreams are big, but the countries that fulfill them don’t need to be. Whether you’re a history lover looking to step into the past, a nature enthusiast longing to see breathtaking landscapes, or a foodie eager to discover local delights, these small countries offer experiences that are anything but. Keep reading to learn all about five of the smallest countries in the world that should be on your bucket list (and which tours to take to visit them).
1. Vatican City
If you’re asking yourself, “What is the smallest country in the world?” look no further than Vatican City. Some people find it surprising to learn that the Vatican is its own country. Just a short drive from (and within walking distance of) Rome’s city center, the Vatican draws in travelers from all over the world every day—and for good reason, as it’s the perfect addition to any Italy tour. Despite being the smallest country in Europe, the Vatican holds huge cultural significance. Whether you’re looking to marvel at the Sistine Chapel or take out cash at the world’s only ATM that offers Latin as a language option, Vatican City will deliver. In fact, the smallest country in the world is home to the largest church in the world: St. Peter’s Basilica. It’s common to see travelers overcome with emotion when processing the grandeur and beauty of this site.
Best way to see it? By adding our Iconic Sights: Vatican City excursion
A day spent in the Vatican is a dreamy experience—but it can be overwhelming without proper planning. With so much to see and so many travelers coming to take in the same sights, it’s important to make every moment count. That’s why we recommend enhancing your tour experience by adding our expertly crafted Iconic Sights: Vatican City excursion to any of our Rome tours. You’ll get to skip the lines alongside your expert guide (who will ensure your experience in the world’s smallest country is nothing less than spectacular). And for an extra-memorable experience, be sure to check out our list of everything to know about visiting the Vatican in Rome.
Tour to see it on: Grand Tour of Italy
Our expert recommendation? Treat yourself to a true Italian adventure with our Grand Tour of Italy. This tour will allow you to spend a magical day in Vatican City while also discovering the true heart of Italy as a local expert whisks you from city buzz to lakeside bliss to rustic countryside tranquility. Traveler Suzanne opted for this Grand Tour and remarked, “I thought Florence was my favorite part of the trip… until we visited the Vatican in Rome and entered St. Peter’s Basilica. There are no words to express the beauty. No words.” See for yourself how words fail to describe the smallest country in the world.
2. Monaco
Is Monaco the smallest country in the world? No, but almost—it’s the second-smallest country in the world! Despite its small size, it certainly doesn’t fly under the radar—Formula One, Grace Kelly, and James Bond are likely just a few of the images that this country brings to mind. Monaco sits between France and Italy and has garnered a resounding international reputation. It’s approximately the same size as Manhattan’s Central Park, and what the country lacks in square footage, it makes up for in wealth—it’s even earned the nickname “the billionaire’s playground.” With nearly one in every three residents holding millionaire status, excessive displays of affluence are no surprise in this tiny nation.
Longing to experience the opulence of Monaco?
Whether or not you opt to roll the dice in the world-famous Monte Carlo Casino, you’ll observe glitz and glamour on your trip to the second-smallest country in the world. While we understand the temptation to see what the cards might have in store for you at the blackjack table, our travel experts know that time in Monaco and on the French Riviera is valuable, and there is much more to take in than casino interiors. Monaco is comprised of four quarters, and the famous Monte Carlo is just one of them. Our suggestion? Head to the oldest quarter of Monaco, Le Rocher, to learn about the small country’s rich history.
Tour to see it on: Barcelona, Southern France & the Italian Riviera
Our Barcelona, Southern France & the Italian Riviera tour offers the perfect opportunity to explore Le Rocher with a local expert. This spectacular Old Town is perched on top of a high rock formation emerging from the Mediterranean. On this tour, you’ll traverse charming cobblestones, uncover the unique history of the opulent principality, and take in all the sites these medieval lanes have to offer. (You might even catch yourself daydreaming while gazing out at the yachts docking in the harbor.) You’ll also see Saint Nicholas Cathedral, a 13th-century church that is a burial site for Monaco royalty (including Grace Kelly) and take in the beauty of the Prince’s Palace, where royals reside to this day. Pro tip: You can determine whether the palace is currently occupied by checking to see whether a flag is raised over its peak tower.
3. Liechtenstein
Where is Liechtenstein, you ask? This small Alpine treasure is sandwiched between Switzerland and Austria. Liechtenstein’s size is roughly the same as that of Washington D.C., and it’s the sixth smallest country in the world. If you’ve ever felt wanderlust for Switzerland’s rolling landscapes, you’ll be interested to know that Liechtenstein is comprised of similarly exquisite scenery. In fact, the two countries look so alike that Swiss troops have accidentally wandered across Liechtenstein’s borders on three separate occasions. After the most recent occurrence, the Swiss government actually sent a formal apology letter detailing how the troops were lost and had no intention of venturing across the border. The official response from Liechtenstein? “These things happen.”
Why add Liechtenstein to your travel wish list?
If this amusing history teaches us anything, it’s that the small nation of Liechtenstein is a quick and easy addition to any travels in Switzerland. Despite the similarities with its larger neighbor, the small country holds unique appeal. The nation’s capital, Vaduz, maintains all the charm of a European capital city with one special benefit: It’s much less visited. Liechtenstein is actually one of the least-visited countries in the world. This means that you can stroll through the virtually empty streets and enjoy quiet Alpine bliss while taking in the spectacular scenery. Time in Liechtenstein provides the perfect opportunity to slow down for a moment and treasure the dreamy wonders of the Alps.
Tour to see it on: Switzerland, Germany & Italy
Without an airport or train station, getting to Liechtenstein can be a task—but our experts can easily whisk you there on our Liechtenstein tours! Travelers on our Switzerland, Germany & Italy tour, for example, can skip the planning and enjoy a stop in Liechtenstein sans stress. You’ll hear all about the small country on your scenic drive in from your expert Tour Director before stopping for some free time to explore its quiet capital. We recommend heading to Liechtenstein Center (Vaduz’s tourism office) to score a passport stamp, stopping at a charming cafe for a beverage, and gazing up at the Vaduz Castle, which looms above the capital city like something out of a fairytale. We have a feeling a visit to Vaduz will leave you longing to discover more cities in the mountains.
4. Luxembourg
Luxembourg’s size is the same as that of the smallest state in the United States: Rhode Island. Located between France, Germany, and Belgium, this tiny country shares similarities to these surrounding countries, yet holds its own strong identity. An interesting example of this? Luxembourg is the only country in the world to still have a grand duchy, meaning the ruling heads of state are a grand duke or grand duchess. It shouldn’t then come as a shock that the country’s motto is, “Mir wëlle bleiwe wat mir sinn” (meaning, “We will remain as we are”). Luxembourgish is not a widely spoken language, but the spirit of the saying showcases how this small country has managed to maintain its power, independence, and identity through the centuries.
Looking for a few reasons to add Luxembourg to your wish list?
There are countless reasons why you’ll love Luxembourg—and why this destination should not be overlooked despite being one of the smallest countries in the world. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, you’ll be intrigued to know that over a third of Luxembourg’s land is covered in mesmerizing forest landscapes. Home to awe-inspiring hiking trails dotted with castles and lined by storybook scenery, this terrain won’t disappoint. Another major benefit of traveling in Luxembourg is that public transportation is free. If you’ve ever taught yourself to navigate trains and buses in foreign countries, you know this is a traveler’s dream. No need to worry about validating tickets or facing fines—just hop on a train free of charge and enjoy the journey through the tranquil emerald landscape.
Tour to see it on: Amsterdam, Luxembourg & Brussels
On our Amsterdam, Luxembourg & Brussels tour, you’ll spent two wonderful nights in Luxembourg getting an expertly crafted view of the small country and its capital city (which both hold the same name). Are you a history fanatic? If so, you’re sure to relish the guided walking tour of the Luxembourg American Cemetery. This emotional experience will transport you back in time to learn about the Battle of the Bulge and the Allied soldiers who gave their lives in this pivotal World War II battle. Afterward, wander through the historic UNESCO-listed Old Town of Luxembourg City. You’ll come to adore the capital’s unmistakable charm as you take in the beauty of the Grand Ducal Palace and religious structures dating back to the 13th century.
5. Malta
It’s often the hidden-gem places that are the most unforgettable, and that’s certainly true for Malta. This tiny island country in the Mediterranean is a must-visit if you’re looking for pristine beaches, UNESCO-listed ruins that are even older than the Egyptian pyramids, and an all-star food scene—all packed into the tenth-smallest country in the world. In fact, Malta’s size is fairly misleading, because there’s simply so much packed into this unforgettable destination. Plus, the present-day culture is fascinating—despite its small size, the Malta population is over half a million people, making for a lot of locals on a small island!
Ready to island hop over to Malta? Simply pair it with a Sicily trip
When it comes to wonder, Malta is most certainly one of the most under-the-radar destinations to travel to now—but, it’s relatively easy to get to when you visit alongside other islands in the Mediterranean. Cue: neighboring Sicily. The Sicily-Malta travel pairing is a perfect one, since it takes less than an hour to fly from island to island. (You’re already there, so why not double the wonder of your Mediterranean vacation and visit two countries while you’re at it?) Both islands are packed with multicultural history, boast incredible food scenes, and have coastal views worth writing home about. Soak it all in on one country-hopping trip.
Tour to see it on: Sicily & Malta: Palermo to Valletta
The size of Malta may be small, but the intrigue of the country is vast. Discover just how much this tiny destination has to offer on our Sicily & Malta: Palermo to Valletta tour, which will whisk you from Catania, Sicily, to just south of Valetta, Malta. Once you land, insider experiences are woven into every part of your itinerary. Swoon over views from the Upper Barrakka Gardens, which are set at the highest point of Valletta’s old defensive walls, and sip afternoon tea on our exclusive Maltese Afternoon Tea excursion. Are you a history buff? You’ll love exploring Mdina’s medieval remnants and prehistoric sites like the Tarxien Temples. (The oldest of these three megalithic structures dates back to 3250 B.C.!) Then, get some beach time on Gozo Island, and cap it all off with mouthwatering local sips and bites. Malta has a hidden-gem wine scene thanks to local grapes that you won’t find anywhere else, and pastizzi pastries in Valetta (phyllo dough stuffed with sheep’s milk cheese or peas) are not to be missed.
FAQs
Since moving abroad for college at the age of 18, Steph’s never doubted that travel is her passion in life. When she isn’t seeking opportunities to satisfy her wanderlust—and inspiring others to do the same—you’ll find her exploring Boston’s vegan food scene, shopping for eclectic pieces to add to her closet, or rewatching 90s romantic comedies.
